Dutchman's Pipe
aristolochia sempervirens
Also known as: ["Evergreen Dutchman's Pipe","Perennial Dutchman's Pipe"]
Overview
A woody vine with heart-shaped leaves and unusual pipe-shaped flowers, known for its persistent foliage and climbing habit.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Aristolochiales |
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Genus: | Aristolochia |
| Botanical Name: | Aristolochia sempervirens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix can be adapted.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure seasonally to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; for indoor plants, rotate regularly for even growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; place near east-facing windows; avoid west-facing exposure in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use terracotta pots for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; adjust watering with temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or vermiculite for high humidity.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant to control size and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above nodes; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; risk of root rot if soil remains wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; reduce watering and ensure good drainage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stagnate; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but less frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the aristolochic acids in Aristolochia sempervirens, which can cause severe kidney damage and increase the risk of cancer. The toxins disrupt renal function and may lead to fatal outcomes if untreated.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe aristolochic acids in Aristolochia sempervirens are highly toxic to dogs, causing acute kidney injury and potential long-term renal failure. The toxins can also lead to bladder and urinary tract cancers in affected animals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAristolochia sempervirens contains aristolochic acids, which are nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. Ingestion can lead to severe kidney damage, aristolochic acid nephropathy, and increased risk of urinary tract cancers. The toxins interfere with cellular DNA, causing long-term health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aristolochia sempervirens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade and can thrive in shaded areas.
Q: How does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Its unusual flowers attract specific pollinators, including certain species of bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aristolochiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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